Manny Ita
The United States Department of Homeland Security has announced plans to deport at least 79 Nigerian nationals following their arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in a nationwide enforcement operation targeting non-citizens with serious criminal records.
In a statement released by the department, the affected individuals were described as the “worst of the worst criminal aliens,” with DHS confirming that those listed have already been convicted of various offences under U.S. law. The crimes cited include fraud, drug-related offences, assault, robbery, manslaughter and other serious criminal acts.
The department said the arrests were carried out by ICE as part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws and remove non-citizens deemed a threat to public safety. “The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is highlighting the worst of the worst criminal aliens arrested by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” the statement said.
It added that the ongoing deportation drive aligns with current federal enforcement priorities. “Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, the hardworking men and women of DHS and ICE are fulfilling President Trump’s promise and carrying out mass deportations, starting with the worst of the worst, including the illegal aliens you see here,” the department stated.
Media reports indicate that DHS has released a list containing the names of several Nigerians slated for removal, drawn from arrests made across multiple states in the United States. The individuals reportedly represent a range of cases, reflecting what authorities described as a coordinated national operation.
While DHS has not disclosed a specific timeline for the deportation process, officials said the removals would proceed in accordance with U.S. immigration laws and established legal procedures. The department also did not indicate whether additional Nigerians could be added to the list as enforcement actions continue.
The announcement has generated concern within Nigerian diaspora communities in the United States, with reports suggesting that some Nigerians without proper documentation are considering voluntary departure amid fears of increased immigration enforcement.
The planned deportations form part of a wider U.S. immigration crackdown focused on non-citizens with criminal convictions, as federal authorities intensify efforts to identify, detain and remove individuals considered to pose security and public safety risks.
